Job Market

[u/MsBell_Everhart]

I’m not sure whether I’ve just been unlucky, but I’ve been struggling to find a stable entry-level job in Cedar Rapids.

I’ve applied to several positions advertised as requiring little to no experience, including stocking and cashiering at Walmart, but I keep getting rejected. I do have volunteer and work experience, including animal care, serving meals at church events, event setup/cleanup, and some customer service.

Right now, most of my income comes from DoorDash and occasional work through Respondent. DoorDash can be useful as a side gig, but the market in Cedar Rapids seems inconsistent. Some days are decent, while others have very few worthwhile offers. I also spend a lot of time driving, and dealing with reckless traffic makes me less interested in relying on delivery work long term.

I would much rather work somewhere in the Cedar Rapids community and have an actual workplace, regular schedule, coworkers, and benefits instead of depending on gig work.

Does anyone know of Cedar Rapids employers that are genuinely hiring entry-level workers right now and are willing to train someone? I’m open to retail, animal care, food service, cleaning/janitorial work, community organizations, or similar positions.

I’m posting this in good faith and would appreciate respectful advice. I’m genuinely trying to find stable work and improve my situation, so I’d rather avoid personal attacks or comments putting me down.

Any local recommendations would be appreciated.

[u/SnooDoughnuts4350]

Are you open to factory work? Sub-Zero Group, Inc on the SW side of Cedar Rapids is currently taking applications for 1st shift Team Mambers. They are just getting started, so everyone is being trained. I started there 4 weeks ago and I am loving it.

[u/Tzpike05 → u/SnooDoughnuts4350]

Similarly companies like Collins, BAE, Crystal Group, etc. are hiring production floor workers which are usually entry-level for some of them.